British Muslim Affairs’ Group Supports Multiculturalism

Tariq Modood argues multiculturalism should "move beyond a focus on exclusion and minorities."

Many have proclaimed multiculturalism dead — Tariq Modood is not among them. He’s analyzed the history of multiculturalism in the UK and thinks it’s not dead yet.

Multiculturalism is the idea that different racial and ethnic groups retain their own identities while, at the same time, forging are larger, inclusive identity.

Modood, writing for The Guardian brings up the inclusion/exclusion debate within British society — specifically those focused on how to deal with growing minority groups.

He also addressed assimilation and the British’s government’s response.

“It cannot be understood as simply a move from multiculturalism to integration, as the government continues to encourage group consultations and representation,” Modood wrote.

Modood pointed to Muslim affairs’ groups like the Muslim Council of Britain as examples of groups that have been successful in supporting Britain’s Muslims.

“By arguing for remedies that are in line with existing legislation and policies on equality, they have made it possible to become part of British political culture and UK multiculturalist politics,” he said.

Liz Leslie is a journalist based in Bloomington, Indiana. As an associate Web producer for WFIU, Liz maintains the Muslim Voices Twitter and Facebook as well as writes for the blog. She also contributes to Earth Eats.More posts by this author »